Break The Rules Of Framing

You’ve no doubt read that framed artwork should be always centered above furniture. Or, that pieces should be hung precisely at eye level (57”). Or that in groupings, the largest piece should be placed in the center or at the center bottom.

There is no lack of “rules” concerning the proper way to hang framed artwork.

But, do you have to follow the rules? Heck no – some rules are made to be broken. Once you throw away the rule book, a whole world of possibilities will open up.

Off the wall

Now that you’re ready to throw caution to the wind, the first thing you should do is to get your artwork off the wall.

Instead of hanging, set your framed pieces on the floor and lean them against the wall. Similarly, you can lean pieces on top of your mantel or even against a window.

Tables, credenzas dressers or other furniture pieces are also a great spot to lean art, especially when you mix in other accessories to create a vignette.

image via mforum.com

image via HGTV.com Photo By: David Tsay

Go big

Oversized art is a great solution for renters stuck with plain white walls. For those of us not limited to white walls, big art will still make a bold statement.

If your big art looks too heavy on the wall, put it on the floor and lean it against the wall instead.

image via lifeonvirginiastreet.com image via chatelaine.com

Go small

Could not have said it better, “Just because you have a large wall to fill doesn’t mean you need a giant piece of art. A small but eye-catching (and of course beautifully framed) piece can be just as impactful.”